Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Have your rear springs failed?

[Makensmoke]

I'm getting up and down slap when initially taking off in my rear pinion. Has anyone ever experienced this happening, possibly from faded leafs?



factory springs on factory blocks... untouched for life of truck. (factory overloads, no aftermarket add ons)

 

[Hohn]

They aren't failed, but maybe a little softer. A failed spring will not be in one piece.



The springs on these things are usually fine (they are overkill) unless severely overloaded and abused.



I'd go with a custom pack if they are bad.



Try Deaver Springs.



jlh

 

[WadePatton]

A good set of traction bars would do wonders for that situation.

 

[Makensmoke]

I'm sure traction bars would fix it. I'd just like to know exactly what and why it is doing this before I "mask" the problem.

 

[claykelly]

The problem is the "soft" springs along with the 4" blocks. There's just too much leverage acting on the spring for it not to wrap. Very common issue with these trucks, also worn shocks WILL make the problem much, much, more noticeable. I'd suggest a set of KYB MonoMax's or other high quality aggressive valved shock to take the edge off the twist.

Other than that, not much you can do except have a custom spring pack made w/o the blocks, or install traction bars.

 

[Beast2B]

look at the bushings and have someone rock the truck while you watch them (TRY TO DO IT SAFELY!) worked for me with truck in gear (or park for you) with the parking brake off, have someone stand on a rear tire and roll it front to back. you'll see any slop in the bushings as well as the u-joints.

 

[Makensmoke]

I will check my spring bushings... again. I haven't tried having somone rock the truck while looking under it yet. As for the shocks that could be it. I tried taking them out to see if there was a difference and there wasen't. It would slap the same, and the shocks had plenty of resistance. But i'm not coming close to the amount of force that the engine puts on them. Plus, they are the stockers still. Where does one find the KYB's you recommend on the net cheapest?



Thanks for your suggestions. I appreciate it.

 

[Regcabguy]

Ditto on that Deaver recommendation. I had the KORE mini-pak installed on my truck but all the weight of the camper 24/7 for five years had severely fatigued the rear springs making for an undesirable situation i. e. sway and bottoming out. Deaver reinstalled my bottom overload and added a leaf of the same dimensions and material as the stock ones and produced a great setup. They're great guys and have been in business since 1930 or so. They'll give you a knowledgable solution to your problem.